Bode George Advises Atiku to Withdraw from 2027 Presidential Race

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against contesting the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement released on Wednesday, George argued that it is not yet the North’s turn to lead, according to the Nigerian Constitution and the PDP’s commitment to rotational leadership. He urged Atiku to step aside and allow a younger generation to take charge, much like U.S. President Joe Biden, who is set to step down to allow younger candidates to run.

George emphasized that his stance is not personal against Atiku but is rooted in the current political reality of Nigeria. He suggested that if Atiku still wishes to pursue the presidency, he should consider waiting until 2031.

The former Ondo State Governor further stressed the need for the PDP to nominate a southerner to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

“By 2027, Atiku will be 81 years old. This is the time for him to adopt President Joe Biden’s example of stepping aside for the younger generation to lead,” George stated.

He continued, “I have nothing against Alhaji Abubakar personally. He is my friend, but we must face the truth. At 80, I also wouldn’t be seeking public office. The same principle should apply to Alhaji Abubakar.”

George referenced the PDP’s constitution, specifically Section 7, Sub-section 3 (C), which mandates zoning and rotation for fairness, justice, and equity. He noted that it would be unjust for another northerner to ascend to the presidency in 2027 following the tenure of Muhammadu Buhari, a northerner who recently completed an eight-year term.

He called for party loyalty to the constitution, highlighting the importance of respecting established rotational principles to maintain unity and fairness.

“If Alhaji Abubakar is insistent on contesting again, I advise him, as a friend and party loyalist, to wait until 2031. By then, he would be 85. As committed members, we must adhere to the PDP Constitution,” George added.

He emphasized the importance of fielding a southern candidate in 2027 to restore balance and avoid the destabilization of both the party and the country.

George also dismissed accusations of tribalism from Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, affirming his commitment to a united Nigeria. “I am a detribalized Nigerian, and my actions have always been in the interest of the nation,” he said, citing his record in public service and his leadership of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Presidential Campaign in 2007.

He urged all party members to uphold the PDP’s founding principles of zoning and rotation, stressing that these guidelines, established since 1998, are critical for maintaining political balance.

“The principle of rotational leadership, switching every eight years between the northern and southern divides, is a legacy I will continue to uphold,” George concluded.